How to Clean a Leather Sofa

How to Clean a Leather Sofa

Leather sofas bring a certain elegance to a room. They are comfortable luxuries that can last a lifetime, if treated properly. Although leather sofas can be horrendously expensive, their longevity far outweighs the cost. So, to get the most out of your sofa, you will have to learn how to look after it.

Before you rush to clean your leather furniture, you should know that different types of upholstered leather have different cleaning requirements. Keep reading to find out how to identify which type of leather your furniture is made from, as well as how to clean it.

Types of leather

Protected leather

Unprotected leather

The easiest way to find out which type of leather your furniture is made from is by checking the manufacturer?s label or any documentation that came with the sofa.?If either of these is missing, you can always check for information on the manufacturer?s website.?If you bought your sofa second-hand or have lost the care instructions, below we have outlined the two most common types of leather that are used for furniture upholstery.

Protected leather

Protected, or semi-aniline leather, is the most common type used in the making of furniture upholstery Cleaning. This type of leather is treated with aniline dye, as well as an additional layer of pigment protection.?The extra treatment makes the leather much tougher, more stain-resistant, and gives it a more uniform look.

Some protected leather pieces are treated with thicker layers of pigment, which gives additional protection against the general wear and tear of daily use. Durability is not the only aspect affected by heavy pigment treatments. The leather will also often become stiffer and take on a shinier appearance

Unprotected leather

Unprotected, or aniline leather, is a more expensive option despite the fact that it?s treated with a less protective pigment. Full analine leather feels much softer and extravagant than it?s protected cousin. The lack of an additional layer of pigment also allows the natural and unique grain and markings to show.?Furniture, upholstered with unprotected leather, may not be as durable or stain-resistant as protected leather, but it does provide a sumptuous sensory feast.